Now There Are Two: FDA Gives Second COVID Pill By Merck Emergency Use Authorization

(Rahway, NJ) — The FDA is giving emergency use authorization to a second COVID-19 antiviral pill. Merck’s Molnupiravir is now cleared for use by adults 18 and up who’ve tested positive for COVID and are at high risk for hospitalization or death. Pfizer’s Paxlovid was okayed the day before for high-risk children 12 and up and for adults. The FDA says the Merck pill will be limited to situations where other FDA-authorized treatments for COVID-19 are inaccessible or inappropriate.